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Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

4.8 from 74 reviews

This Walking Taco Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food that combines all the flavors of a classic taco in a convenient baked dish. Ground beef, black beans, seasoned tomatoes, crunchy corn chips, and melted cheese come together to create a hearty casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Finished with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and jalapenos, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the fiesta to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped finely

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 1 package taco seasoning
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup sour cream

Canned Goods

  • 1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (10 ounces)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 bag Fritos corn chips (9.25 ounces)
  • 2 cups Mexican-style shredded cheese

Toppings

  • Green onions, sliced
  • Additional sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • Jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is almost cooked through. Add the finely chopped onions and continue cooking until the onions are soft and the beef is no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break up the meat.
  3. Add Seasoning and Water: Stir in the taco seasoning packet along with ½ cup water. Bring the mixture to a boil, mixing well to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
  4. Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Sour Cream: Lower the heat to a simmer and stir in the drained black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and ½ cup sour cream. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
  5. Layer the Casserole: Spread a single layer of Fritos corn chips on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of Mexican-style shredded cheese over the chips. Then add the prepared ground beef and bean mixture as the next layer. Finish by spreading the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top.
  6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through around the edges.
  7. Serve with Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven and top with additional corn chips and your favorite toppings such as sliced green onions, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and jalapenos for extra flavor and texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier casserole, add extra jalapenos or use a hotter salsa.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
  • Use gluten-free taco seasoning and chips to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • To save time, use pre-chopped onions and canned beans.

Keywords: walking taco casserole, taco casserole, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, Mexican casserole, family meal, Fritos casserole